Law enforcement in Arizona is gearing up to combat impaired driving as the holiday season approaches and a surge in travel is anticipated. According to AZFamily, authorities are particularly concerned about the rise in the number of impaired drivers on the roads.
“We anticipate a significant increase in traffic this weekend, which is why both the East and West Valley task forces are actively working,” stated Jesse Torrez, Director of the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.
According to AAA, approximately 120 million individuals are expected to travel over 50 miles during the New Year, with 2.3 million of them being Arizonans.
Since Thanksgiving, the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety has reported that there have been almost 2,000 DUI arrests in Arizona, out of a total of nearly 56,000 traffic stops made during that period.
Marvin, a resident of Phoenix, emphasized the importance of having various forms of security, including police presence and road guards.
In the upcoming weeks, drivers can anticipate the presence of DUI task forces, specialized enforcement activities, and a higher number of officers on the roadways actively searching for traffic violations and impaired drivers, according to Torrez.
“During the holiday season, there tends to be a surge in individuals who choose to drink and drive. As a result, our top priority is ensuring the safety of all motorists. We understand that everyone wants to make it home, especially during this festive time,” he emphasized.
AAA has shared some helpful tips for travelers. They recommend being prepared and suggest taking snacks along in case of any delays. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of packing patience for a smoother travel experience.